Error 1: Underestimating the BFR (Working Capital Need). You need to pay your suppliers, your stock, your employees, often before you’ve received enough cash. Plan for 3 months of cash in advance during startup.
Error 2: Overestimating the initial revenue. Growth is progressive. Do not base your profitability on a 100% fill rate from month one. Be pessimistic in your forecasts (low assumption).
Error 3: Forgetting hidden costs. SACEM, mandatory training (hygiene, operating permit), small equipment, launch communication, insurance… the bill adds up quickly.
Error 4: Neglecting location in market research. A good concept in the wrong place doesn’t work. Have you counted the foot traffic? Analyzed direct and indirect competition in the trade area?
Error 5: A financial plan without a marketing plan. Saying “I’m going to generate €500k in revenue” isn’t enough. How will you find these clients? What’s the advertising budget? What social media strategy? Figures must be based on concrete actions.
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